Why Did a Former Tory MP Leave the Party and Reveal an Election Strategy?

Former Conservative MP Sarah Atherton has announced her departure from the party, labelling it "impotent" and expressing her desire to stand in next May's Senedd election. Atherton, who lost her Wrexham seat in the 2024 general election, stated that the Conservatives no longer reflect her values or ideology. While she has not disclosed which party she may join, she aims to leverage her social work experience in her political career in Cardiff Bay.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Sarah Atherton has quit the Conservative Party, citing misalignment with its values.
• She aims to run in the forthcoming Senedd election in May 2024.
• Atherton has not confirmed her affiliation with any other party yet.
• The Conservatives have not commented on her departure.
• Atherton was the first Conservative MP for Wrexham since its establishment in 1918.
• Her comments about embracing Reform UK leader Nigel Farage previously stirred controversy.

Background on Sarah Atherton

Sarah Atherton served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Wrexham from 2019 until her defeat in the 2024 general election. Her tenure was marked by her role as parliamentary under-secretary of state for defence people, veterans, and service families in 2022. Atherton's election was historic, as she became the first Conservative to represent the Wrexham constituency since its creation in 1918.

Although she had a promising start in politics, her recent comments and decisions suggest a growing discontent with the Conservative Party's direction. Atherton's claim that the party is "impotent" reflects a broader sentiment among some members who feel the party has diverged from its foundational principles.

Political Aspirations

Atherton has made it clear that she wishes to continue her political career, particularly at the Senedd, Wales' parliament. She has indicated that she believes she has "a lot still left to give" to the political landscape. However, her path to candidacy may be complicated by the party selection processes in place.

Selection Process in Wales

Under the new electoral map for Wales, which was introduced to create a more proportional representation, 16 constituencies will each elect six members from party lists. This system prioritises sitting Members of the Senedd (MSs) during the selection process. Due to these changes, Atherton has stated that she cannot stand for the Conservatives, as the current configuration favours established party members.

Reform UK and Future Alliances

While Atherton has not confirmed any association with Reform UK, her previous remarks about the party and its leader, Nigel Farage, indicate a potential alignment with their values. Last year, she suggested that the Conservatives should embrace Farage, a sentiment that was met with criticism from within her party. Andrew RT Davies, then Welsh Conservative leader, dismissed the idea, stating that the party’s future would not be found through Farage's influence.

Atherton's situation mirrors that of Laura Anne Jones, another former Conservative MS who recently defected to Reform UK, becoming its first member in the Senedd. This shift highlights a growing trend among politicians who feel disenfranchised by the Conservative Party’s new direction.

The Conservative Party's Response

In light of Atherton's departure, a spokesperson for the Conservative Party has opted not to comment. This lack of response could suggest a reluctance to engage in internal party disputes, particularly with the upcoming Senedd elections on the horizon.

The Implications of Atherton's Exit

Atherton's exit from the Conservative Party raises critical questions about the party's future, especially in the context of the upcoming May elections. With her departure, the Conservatives may face challenges in maintaining their hold on the Wrexham constituency and other areas in Wales where they have struggled to connect with voters.

The growing discontent among former members could indicate a shift in voter sentiment, particularly if prominent figures like Atherton align themselves with parties such as Reform UK. This could potentially attract voters disillusioned with the current Conservative leadership and policies.

Conclusion

Atherton's decision to leave the Conservative Party and pursue a political career in the Senedd reflects a broader trend of dissatisfaction within the party. As the political landscape continues to evolve in Wales, her next steps will be closely watched, particularly as they may influence the dynamics of the upcoming elections. With changes in party allegiance becoming increasingly common, the ramifications of these shifts will likely resonate across the political spectrum.

As the narrative unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Atherton's political journey develops and whether she can carve out a new role for herself in Welsh politics. What does this mean for the future of the Conservative Party in Wales? #WalesPolitics #SarahAtherton #SeneddElections

FAQs

Why did Sarah Atherton leave the Conservative Party?

Sarah Atherton left the Conservative Party because she felt it no longer aligned with her values and labelled it "impotent." She aims to pursue a political career in the Senedd elections.

What is the new electoral system for the Senedd elections?

The new electoral system for the Senedd elections involves 16 constituencies electing six members each from party lists, prioritising sitting Members of the Senedd during the selection process.

Is Sarah Atherton joining Reform UK?

Sarah Atherton has not confirmed any affiliation with Reform UK despite her previous comments about the party and its leader, Nigel Farage. She is exploring options for her political future.

What was Atherton's role in the UK government?

Sarah Atherton served as the parliamentary under-secretary of state for defence people, veterans, and service families for a brief period in 2022 during her time as MP for Wrexham.

Who is Laura Anne Jones and what is her significance?

Laura Anne Jones is a former Conservative Member of the Senedd who recently defected to Reform UK, becoming its first member in the Senedd, highlighting a trend of discontent among Conservative politicians.